CALIFORNIA STATE COMMANDERS VETERANS COUNCIL MEETING

This is an executive summary of the California State Commanders Veterans Council (CSCVC) meeting held January 26, 2008, 9:30-12:30pm, Fresno. COL Warren Enos, President, represented CAL-MOAA affiliated chapters.

The Agenda
Call to order 0930. Roll call 10 of 19 members present; half a dozen guests. October 27, 2007 meeting minutes approved. Presentations by CAL-MOAA, CDVA. Financial report. Legislative report. Secretary’s report. New business. Roundtable discussion.

Special Presentations
The CAL-MOAA presentation was a strong message about supporting Pete Conaty & Associates, the legislative advocate. CDVA Secretary Tom Johnson explained how the Governor’s budget would impact his department. John King, a CDVA Deputy, explained how services are being provided to the state’s 2.2 million veterans. The CSCVC secretary said some groups interested in membership have been denied because they did not meet the bylaws mandated requirements. Most veterans organizations are losing membership; funds are short everywhere.

Financial Report
The Council does not have sufficient funds to meet its financial obligations, particularly a $6,000 annual payment to Pete Conaty & Associates. This is an important issue because Conaty plays a major role in the creation of what will be CAL-MOAA’s state legislative agenda. Appeals were made for action to solve some of the problems; no action was taken except to provide for a discussion of the issue at the upcoming April 12th Fresno meeting. CAL-MOAA made a dues payment of $100 and provided a $1,000 check in support of the legislative effort, sending a
strong message that all affiliated organizations must make a fair share payment. There was a recommendation made to increase annual dues from $100 to $300.

Legislative Report
Legislative Officer Bill Manes provided a summary of the Legislature’s upcoming work schedule as well as California’s fiscal and budget status, situations which are sure to impact any 2008 legislative efforts. A list of 11 legislative initiatives was presented and approved by the
membership. The process of introducting new bills will continue through February 22nd.

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